Makiba Kurita
About
I’m Makiba, a professional violinist and graduate student at USC. I hold a Master of Music in Violin Performance from UCLA and a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
I have extensive solo and orchestral performance experience and regularly perform throughout Los Angeles. I have also performed for recordings, soundtracks, and music videos, including an appearance in Don Toliver’s “Excavator” music video. Outside of classical music, I share violin covers of anime, J-pop, film music, and classical works on Instagram and YouTube.
Teaching Style
I started learning violin through the Suzuki method, so I’m familiar with its approach and enjoy incorporating Suzuki-based techniques into my teaching. I work with students of all ages and levels and tailor lessons to each student’s goals.
Whether you’re a complete beginner, working on classical repertoire, preparing for an audition, or simply want to learn your favorite Pop songs, I want lessons to feel encouraging, relaxed, and fun while still building strong fundamentals.
Curriculum
I use a combination of Suzuki-based learning and traditional violin instruction, adapting my approach to each student. For younger beginners, I may recommend Suzuki materials, while more advanced students can work from their current repertoire, etudes, scales, and other materials suited to their level.
I’m also happy to help students learn music they are personally excited about, including Pop songs.
Credentials & Affiliations
Education
- Graduate Student — University of Southern California (USC)
- Master of Music in Violin Performance — UCLA
- Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Performance
- Concertmaster — UCLA Philharmonia
- Concertmaster — University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra
- Violinist — California Young Artists Symphony
Awards & Competitions
- LA Opera Competition — Semifinalist
- Thomas J. Smith Competition — Winner
- Paul Rolland Violin Competition — Winner
- Midwest Conservatory Concerto Competition — Winner
- Conant Concerto Competition — Winner